The Effect of Coconut Shell Biochar on the Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) in Acidic Alfisols Soil

Abstract

The utilization of coconut shell biochar in acidic soils has shown promise in enhancing the growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annum L.), presenting a sustainable solution for improving crop productivity in challenging environments. This study investigates the specific effects and potential benefits of biochar application on chilli cultivation in acidic Alfisols soil conditions. A field experiment was conducted at ZARS, UAS, GKVK Bengaluru-65 during Rabi season 2020-21, to assess the “Effect of coconut shell biochar on growth of chilli in acidic Alfisols soil”. The experiment was laid out in a RCBD with eight treatments replicated thrice. The results revealed that biochar application significantly increased the growth parameters of chilli. Significantly higher plant height (72.67 cm, 18-25%), number of leaves per plant (107.83, 25-35%), number of primary branches per plant (6.87, 25-35%) and chilli fruit length (8.12 cm, 10-15%) was recorded in treatment recommended NPK + Biochar @ 30 t ha-1 and was found on par with different levels of biochar applied plots (Recommended NPK + Biochar @ 10, 15, 20 and 25 t ha-1) in most of the growth parameters. However, the diameter of chilli fruits was found non-significant with the different treatments. The lowest plant height, number of leaves, number of branches per plant, fruit length and diameter were found in treatment absolute control. Results showed significant enhancements in plant height, number of branches, leaves, flowers and fruit yield with biochar use, particularly at 30 t ha-1. These improvements are attributed to biochar's ability to improve soil pH, nutrient availability, water retention and microbial activity. The potential of biochar as a sustainable solution for enhancing crop productivity in challenging acidic soil conditions.